Eclectic Artisans relaunched last month with a brand new custom built website that's easy to search for that unique piece of jewellery crafted in the artisan's own studio. We now represent over 100 of the best contemporary jewellery artisans located in 30 countries. New artisans launch each month so there is always something new to find. Our new site also features interviews with artisans, event and exhibition information, and lots of extra insider information – for those who make beautiful jewellery and for those who love to wear it. FREE SHIPPINGShipping is included in all our prices, and our artisans ship their work securely insured to you, all over the world. Shop now >

Rubies are one of the most precious stones in the entire world. Alongside diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires, they are among the most highly valued stones in modern society. However, rubies were only defined by their chemical makeup in the last couple of centuries. Prior to that, “ruby” referred to any red stone, and was used interchangeably with the word “garnet” to describe these stones.It is hard to say where the first rubies were found. They are mentioned in the Bible and were central to trade during the Medieval period. Rubies have been mined in Burma, China, India, and Thailand – in all of these places, they took on specific cultural significance. They are also found in Colombia, Australia, Madagascar, and even Scotland.In China, because red is the colour of good luck, rubies were said to stimulate innate life force, and they were worn in order to draw other people to the wearer. In both Ancient Greece and India, rubies were said to boil water when they were thrown into it, and melt wax when they touched it. From China to Egypt to Greece and India, virtually every ancient culture developed symbolism around rubies.

SPOTLIGHT ON CANADAEach newsletter we will focus on one of the 30+ countries that EA represents. Superb work from the leaders in contemporary jewellery within their country. We start with beautiful Canada.

Caroline RiviereCaroline's background in marine biology shows through in her delicate and organic forms.Shop now >